DETROIT — Gathered at the Detroit Historical Museum on Friday night, a baseball-centric crowd received an in-person series of recollections from Tigers-affiliated legends and a preview of a temporary exhibit marking one memorable season’s 50th anniversary, titled “The Year of the Tiger: 1968.”
Kicking things off at 7 p.m. was a panel featuring Director of Exhibitions and Collections Tracy Irwin, and moderated by local writer Bill Dow. Alongside them were representative media personalities who covered the season and notable members of the 1968 Tigers who lived it: Jerry Green, a longtime Detroit News writer who chose to document the season via diary; Ray Lane, who helped announce much of the season alongside the likes of Ernie Harwell, George Kell and others; Willie Horton, whose prominence as a local high school baseball star helped lead to an 18-year career as one of Detroit’s most beloved athletes; and Mickey Lolich, whose three postseason games (within eight days!) culminated in a persevering World Series win through one of baseball history’s greatest pitching duels.
In thinking back to the year, each speaker alluded to the impacting moments regarding the season and a gave a hint of what was set up and featured within the exhibition. From Ray Lane noting how “They had a hero, every game,” to Lolich crediting pitching coach Johnny Sain with figuring out who was ready to pitch, and Horton mentioning working out with Mickey Stanley on defensive work, each was steadfast in how they remembered their teammates and experiences. As Jerry Green put it, “I figured in April (of ’68), the Tigers had a good chance to win.”
Be sure to check out the special exhibit “The Year of the Tiger: 1968” which commemorates the 50th anniversary of the historic win. It will remain on display through October 7, 2018 inside the museum’s Community Gallery.
The Detroit Historical Museum is located at 5401 Woodward Ave. (NW corner of Kirby) in Midtown Detroit. It is open to the public Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for all, all the time.
For more information about the special exhibit, visit https://detroithistorical.org/detroit-historical-museum/exhibitions/special-exhibitions/year-tiger-1968
